New York, NY-November 3, 2009–The international editors of Runner’s World magazine, the worldwide authority on running information, awarded Asics Gel-Kayano 15 with the International Editor’s Choice award for best shoe of 2009. Now in its fifth year, the 2009 International Shoe Summit unites the editors and publishers of Runner’s World‘s 15 global editions for an exclusive look at the 2010 product lines from today’s leading running shoe manufacturers. Representatives from manufacturers Asics, Adidas, Brooks, Mizuno, New Balance, Nike, Puma, Reebok and Saucony were among those presenting before 15 international Runner’s World editors at this year’s International Shoe Summit. A special award ceremony was held on Friday evening at Providence in New York City, concluding the annual three-day conference.

The Runner’s World International Editor’s Choice award for “Shoe of the Year” is presented annually in collaboration with the International Shoe Summit, part of Runner’s World‘s global initiative to find, test and designate the best shoes in the world for its readers in the 15 countries where it currently publishes: Australia/New Zealand, Brazil, Columbia, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, The Netherlands/Belgium, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.

“Runner’s World is a trusted resource for runners around the globe. We pride ourselves on identifying the running shoes with the best combination of design, technology and performance for the international running community,” said David Willey, Editor-in-Chief of Runner’s World USA. “Runner’s World congratulates Asics for receiving the International Editor’s Choice award for their Gel-Kayano 15.”

The Asics Gel-Kayano 15‘s exceptional fit and superior impact protection won top honors from global wear-testers. Testers were almost unanimous in their praise of the shoe’s new off-center lacing pattern, which follows the natural topline of the foot for a snug arch wrap. Asics also filled the heel with more Gel and topped it off with a plastic cap that keeps the gel from feeling too soft underfoot. The Asics Gel-Kayano 15 is recommended for runners with normal arches who need a stable, well-cushioned shoe.

Brooks Ghost 2 received Runner’s World‘s International Best Update, given to a shoe that demonstrates standout improvements and/or revisions. Brooks Ghost 2’s most pronounced features are its fit, flexibility and supportive arch. This year’s International Best Update is recommended for runners with normal arches and a relatively efficient stride looking for plenty of arch support.

Runner’s World editors and hundreds of independent wear-testers, both domestically and globally, put all running shoes through rigorous testing. Additionally, mechanical testing at the Runner’s World Shoe Lab objectively assesses all shoes reviewed in the magazine. The Runner’s World International Shoe Awards help runners select the most appropriate shoes for their levels and needs.

Additionally, Runner’s World‘s December 2009 issue, on sale on Tuesday, November 3, features its annual Winter Shoe Guide. Four of the 15 shoes highlighted–all of which were put through rigorous testing by Runner’s World editors, 350 “wear-testers” and the one-of-a-kind Runner’s World Shoe Lab–were cited best in class in the following four categories: Editor’s Choice, Best Update, Best Debut and Best Buy. The domestic winners are as follows:

Editor’s Choice: Asics GT -2150

Best Update: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10

Best Debut: Brooks Launch

Best Buy: Asics Gel-1150

About Runner’s World
Recognized as the worldwide authority on running information, the mission of Rodale’s Runner’s World is to inform, advise, and motivate runners of all ages and abilities. Runner’s World, published by Rodale, aims to help runners achieve their personal health, fitness, and performance goals, and to inspire them with vivid, memorable storytelling. Currently Runner’s World publishes 15 international editions. Runner’s World‘s award-winning companion Web site, www.runnersworld.com, is the largest running community on the Internet, featuring interactive, searchable, and targeted content for runners of all ages and abilities.